How can Acts 8:12 inspire us to share the gospel with others? Setting the Scene in Acts 8 • After the martyrdom of Stephen, “those who were scattered went about preaching the word” (Acts 8:4). • Philip, one of the seven chosen in Acts 6, heads north to Samaria—an unexpected mission field for a Jewish believer. • Signs and wonders accompany his message, drawing an eager crowd (Acts 8:6–7). God is showing that the gospel is meant for all peoples, not just Jerusalem. What Acts 8:12 Says “But when they believed Philip as he proclaimed the good news of the kingdom of God and the name of Jesus Christ, both men and women were baptized.” Key Observations • “Believed Philip” – The Samaritans trusted the messenger because he faithfully declared Scripture and demonstrated God’s power. • “Proclaimed the good news of the kingdom of God and the name of Jesus Christ” – The message is Christ-centered and kingdom-focused, not self-help or philosophy (cf. 1 Corinthians 2:2). • “Both men and women” – The gospel crosses every social line; no one is excluded (Galatians 3:28). • “Were baptized” – Immediate public identification with Christ follows genuine faith, showing transformed allegiance (Romans 6:3-4). Lessons for Our Evangelism Today • Content matters. Philip preached “the kingdom of God and the name of Jesus Christ” (Acts 4:12). We must present the same clear, exclusive message. • Expect God to confirm His Word. While signs may vary today, the Spirit still authenticates the gospel through changed lives (Acts 1:8). • Reach across barriers. Samaritans were despised by Jews, yet Philip went anyway (John 4:9). The gospel calls us beyond comfort zones. • Invite immediate response. Philip did not delay baptism; he urged public commitment (Acts 2:41). The gospel demands decision, not indecision. • Include everyone present. Luke highlights both genders to stress equal value in Christ’s body (Acts 2:17-18). Practical Steps to Share the Gospel 1. Pray specifically for opportunities and boldness (Colossians 4:3-4; Ephesians 6:19). 2. Start with the people God places in front of you—neighbors, coworkers, classmates. 3. Share the big picture of God’s kingdom: creation, fall, redemption, restoration, climaxing in Christ (Romans 5:8; 2 Corinthians 5:21). 4. Use simple Scripture portions—John 3:16, Romans 10:9, Acts 4:12—to keep Christ central. 5. Ask for a response: “Would you like to place your trust in Jesus now?” (Acts 16:31). 6. If they believe, encourage immediate obedience through baptism and local-church connection (Matthew 28:19-20). 7. Keep following up. Discipleship is ongoing, not a one-time conversation (1 Thessalonians 2:8). Encouragement to Move Forward • Jesus commands, “Go into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature” (Mark 16:15). • “I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes” (Romans 1:16). • The same Spirit who empowered Philip indwells us today (Romans 8:11). Step out, speak up, and watch God draw people to Himself—just as He did in Acts 8:12. |
    |